The Chargers didn’t exactly stop Rice. He racked up 112 yards — 57 rushing and another 55 on nine catches.

But as the game wore on, Rice became less of a factor — partially because the Ravens fell so far behind that the Rice ground weapon was neutralized. And partially because the Chargers, as free safety Eric Weddle put it “got multiple hats on him.”

“We knew it was going to be a tough game,” said Weddle. “Controlling that game started with being physical and limiting what Rice did.”

Rice got off to a strong start, gaining 45 yards in the first quarter with 36 coming on the ground on six carries. He gained another 40 yards in the second quarter. But he accounted for only 27 yards after intermission with only four of those coming on the ground.

As a team, the Ravens gained only 119 yards in the second half while suffering two interceptions and six of the seven sacks the Chargers had against starting quarterback Joe Flacco and backup Tyrod Taylor.

“This was not a great game,” Phillips said of the Chargers defensive effort. “A great game is a shutout. We haven’t played a great game this season.

“But this was a pretty good game.”

Said nose tackle Antonio Garay: “We were clicking on all cylinders. Look at the Ravens. They are one of the most physical teams in the league. They are very physical and they take pride in that.

“And we got after them. We were physical tonight. The offense certainly helped us. They put the Ravens in a hole. That helped us to show what we can do.”

Rice said the Ravens had some early momentum that disappeared as they were failing to take advantage of opportunities while the Chargers were scoring on their first five possessions.

“We did come out and run the ball really well,” said Rice. “We moved the ball well, but we missed opportunities. Any defense will tell you that when you get ahead, it’s easier to call a defense.

“We got beat. The Chargers played a great game. They executed at a high level. Give them credit.”

Weddle made a big play early, saving a touchdown with a late deflection, and Baltimore scored only once until the final minutes.

“I think that was one of the more physical games we’ve played on both the offensive and defensive lines,” said Weddle. “When we are physical, we are tough to beat. And tonight, I thought we set the tone early.